We the Needham People said NO to 'Citizens United'!

Last night Town Meeting finally took the vote on the anti Citizens United resolution, Article 23. (read the Patch's write up here)

Presenters were well-prepared and compelling, and over the course of the 3 speakers, presented a solid and convincing narrative.

The first speaker from the floor, however, was in opposition, with a prepared text. The main arguments (in brief/my words, obviously):

1. Don't take away corporations' right to speak because YOU can be a corporation too (If Sierra Club and Churches can't speak for us, who will?) and 
2. "Beware of unintended consequences of passing this--McCain Feingold was supposed to fix things and look what happened," and 
3. "We don't even know what we're voting for/we don't have the text of the amendment" and 
4. Voting on this will open the floodgates to further frivolous votes on national issues which have no place in town meeting 

Another opponent also had prepared remarks and covered much the same.

Bob Smart and Karen Price made the presentation for the petitioners; Jerry Wasserman presented the case from the Board of Selectman, which had voted to support. Among other great input from the floor, TMM Lois Sockol gave a fantastic, passionate speech in support; I would love to get video of that!

State Rep. Denise Garlick made a statement declaring that this discussion was instructive to her and her vote on s772 (the state bill to overturn citizens united).

During pro speakers, many people around me, at least, were nodding in agreement and whispering in disagreement during the opposition.

The question was called, ending debate, and we voted with a strong majority on a voice vote. Some are saying 2/3; I thought 60/40. The moderator called it and Town Meeting, breaking decorum, burst into a spontaneous round of applause!

It was extremely satisfying to do something that feels so important and central to our democratic principles. Thank you to every person who supported this truly grassroots effort!!

There is more work to do, of course. Ours is but one voice in a growing chorus, and it is but one avenue for seeking the change we want. Other efforts need organizing and support--for instance, a ballot measure for November's election, where voters can weigh in on the issue. Signatures need to be collected, more conversations with neighbors and friends need to be had. 

So don't delete those "Citizens United" files in your head! This is a long fight, and we must work over the long haul!!